Are you among the millions of women who wear high heels day after
day? For years, experts have known about the detrimental consequences
of high heels on the health and function of the human body. They can
cause the formation of bunions, corns, neuromas and hammertoes in feet
as well as knee, hip and lower back pain.
Now, a team
of scientists from Australia have identified yet another concern of high
heels. In a research article published in the Journal of Applied
Physiology, they discovered that women who habitually wear high heels
tend to walk differently. They place more strain on their calf muscles
and increase their risk of injury. These scientists studied nine women
who use high heels at least 40 hours per week and ten women who wear
high heels less than 10 hours per week. After observing and analyzing
the women's gait patterns, they discovered that the heel wearers tended
to walk with shorter, more forceful strides compared to those that did
not wear high heels. These women also held their feet in a flexed,
hammertoe position even when walking barefoot. In addition, the
researchers suggested that this altered walking style may increase
muscle fatigue.
To combat this concern, try wear flats
most of time and only switch into heels sparingly. If you're going to
buy heels, avoid those with pointy tips and opt for a pair with a wide
toe box. Once you reach your destination, give your feet a breather
under the desk or table, and especially take them off if you plan on
dancing. Alternating with flats for part of the day is also beneficial.
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